Think Milan is the must visit city in Northern Italy? Then you have not met Bergamo yet. This charming place is a hidden gem and honestly, such a good pick for a trip with kids. Medieval streets, creamy stracciatella gelato right where it was invented, cozy squares where you can just sit while the kids roam around a bit, Bergamo surprised us in the best way.
Bergamo is basically two cities in one. You have the modern lower town, Città Bassa, and the medieval upper town, Città Alta. The funicular takes you from one world to the other in just a few minutes, which already feels like an adventure for kids.
In this article we share our 10 favorite things to do in Bergamo with kids, plus practical tips about transport, parking and family friendly hotels. Perfect if you are planning a Northern Italy roadtrip, a city break or adding Bergamo to a longer Italy vacation with children.
Mini guide:
Bergamo
Best Time to Visit
April through June and September and October are ideal for Bergamo, with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
July and August are great too, but it is high season with higher temperatures.
Where to stay in Bergamo
– Petronilla: Boutique hotel with Wes Anderson vibes.
– Il Giardino di Berbech: Charming B&B in the heart of Città Alta.
– AGRITURISMO CA’ FENILE: Agriturismo just outside Bergamo with a swimming pool.
Before you go
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Skip ahead to your favorite part
- Our 10 Tips for Visiting Bergamo with Kids
- Wander Through the Medieval Streets of Città Alta
- Explore the Modern Center of Città Bassa, Shopping, Strolling and a Green Park
- Visit the Natural History Museum for Dinos, a Mammoth and other animals
- Combine It with the Archaeological Museum, Small but Fun
- Playground Break in the Shade near Piazza della Cittadella
- Taste the Original Stracciatella Gelato at La Marianna
- Climb the Campanone for Views Over Bergamo
- The Most Fun Way Up, Ride the Funicular
- Pizza Time, Enjoy a Real Italian Pizza
- Discover Lake Iseo, A Hidden Gem Near Bergamo
- Family Friendly Hotels in Bergamo
- Practical Tips for Bergamo, Transport, Car Rental and Parking
- Frequently Asked Questions About Bergamo with Kids
- Our Conclusion: Bergamo Is Surprisingly Great with Kids
- Handy Tips for Your Trip to Bergamo with Kids
Our 10 Tips for Visiting Bergamo with Kids
Wander Through the Medieval Streets of Città Alta
Città Alta feels like stepping back in time. Narrow cobblestone streets, old city gates and views that keep making you stop for a second. Let the kids burn off energy walking along the old city walls, it almost feels like a real life castle adventure.
On cozy squares like Piazza Vecchia it is easy to slow down. Grab an Italian gelato, find a spot on the steps or a terrace and just sit for a bit while everyone takes in the atmosphere.
And do not skip the little shops. We found small souvenirs and local treats, the kind of places where you walk in “just to look” and leave with a tiny bag anyway.
Perfect first stop to get that real Bergamo feeling, for you and for the kids.
Explore the Modern Center of Città Bassa, Shopping, Strolling and a Green Park
Città Bassa feels very different from the old town on the hill. No medieval alleys here, but wide streets, elegant buildings and a more modern city vibe. This part of Bergamo was developed in the 19th century, and you really notice it while walking around.
It is perfect for a slow stroll, a coffee break in the sun or a bit of shopping. Bergamo might be smaller than Milan, but you can shop surprisingly well here. Around Via XX Settembre and Via Sentierone you will find a mix of well known brands and local boutiques, easy to combine with sightseeing.
Tip:
Need a break after all that strolling? In Parco Suardi, a large city park in Città Bassa, you will find a great playground where kids can run, climb and burn off some energy.
Visit the Natural History Museum for Dinos, a Mammoth and other animals
The Natural History Museum, officially called Museo Civico di Scienze Naturali Enrico Caffi, is a big hit with kids. From a huge dinosaur skeleton to an impressive mammoth, there is a lot to look at.
It is a clear and manageable museum, great with children because you can see everything in about 60 minutes without anyone getting bored.
Entrance fee: Adults €3, children free.
Combine It with the Archaeological Museum, Small but Fun
Right next to the Natural History Museum you will find the Civico Museo Archeologico. Inside you can see Roman columns, statues and even a real mummy, which instantly grabs kids’ attention.
It is a small museum, which actually makes it perfect to combine with the Natural History Museum. You do not need hours here, but it adds a fun extra layer to your visit.
Tip:
Your Natural History Museum ticket also gives you access to this museum.
Playground Break in the Shade near Piazza della Cittadella
Behind the museums, near Giardino La Crotta, there is a small playground where kids can run around for a bit. After museums and walking, this is such a good reset moment.
You can sit in the shade, catch your breath and plan your next stop, while the kids climb and play. Simple, but very welcome during a city day with children.
Taste the Original Stracciatella Gelato at La Marianna
Did you know stracciatella gelato was invented in Bergamo? At La Marianna in Città Alta you can taste the original recipe.
Trust us, this is one of those stops everyone is happy about. Besides gelato, they also serve pastries and small bites on the terrace, perfect for a sweet break with a view.
Climb the Campanone for Views Over Bergamo
Want to see Bergamo from above? Head up the Campanone, also known as the Civic Tower. You can take the stairs or the elevator, both are part of the experience, and the view at the top is worth it.
From up here you look out over the rooftops, the cathedral area and the green hills around the city. It really helps kids understand how Città Alta sits on top of everything.
Entrance fee:
Free for children under 10, €1 for ages 11 to 17, €3 for ages 18 to 26 and the full ticket is €5. This ticket also includes access to the Palazzo del Podestà.
The Most Fun Way Up, Ride the Funicular
The funicular is a short but exciting ride that kids absolutely love. For about €2.60 return, you glide easily between Città Bassa and Città Alta. The ride itself already feels like a mini attraction and is most definitely a hit when visiting Bergamo with kids.
Tip:
Do not lose your return ticket like we did. Otherwise you will need to buy a new one to get back down.
Extra tip:
Visit Caffè della Funicolare. From here you have fantastic views over the city and can watch the funicular while enjoying a cappuccino or a small bite.
Pizza Time, Enjoy a Real Italian Pizza
A trip to Italy just is not complete without pizza. In Bergamo you will find plenty of pizzerias where you can enjoy a freshly baked pizza with great local ingredients. From a classic Margherita to one with truffle, this is always a good idea with kids.
Tip:
We ate at Dai Gustosi and still think about how good that pizza was. Absolutely recommended.
Discover Lake Iseo, A Hidden Gem Near Bergamo
Just a 30 minute drive from Bergamo you reach Lake Iseo, a lesser known lake in Northern Italy, and that is exactly why we liked it so much. Compared to the busy Lake Garda and Lake Como, it feels more relaxed and local.
You can explore charming towns like Lovere, Sarnico and Iseo, or visit Monte Isola, the largest inhabited lake island in Europe. No cars, small streets and great views, kids love the boat ride over.
Take a boat trip on the lake, stroll through the colorful streets of Lovere or walk up into the hills on Monte Isola for wide views over the water and mountains. Lake Iseo is a great mix of nature, culture and downtime, perfect for families.
➜ Also read our separate article about the 6 most beautiful spots around Lake Iseo in Northern Italy.
Family Friendly Hotels in Bergamo
Want to explore Bergamo at a relaxed pace? Plan 2 to 3 days. That gives you enough time for Città Alta, Città Bassa and even a day trip nearby.
Here are great options for families:
Le Funi Hotel
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 9,1 on Booking.com
Price range: €€€ (higher segment)
A real gem in a quiet area of Città Alta, close to the historic center of the medieval town. Stylish, calm and a great base with kids.
➜ Check availability
Residenza del Borgo
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 9,1 on Booking.com
Price range: €€ (mid range)
Small scale and full of character in a historic part of Bergamo. Well kept rooms and a peaceful location within walking distance of Città Alta.
➜ Check availability
Quarto Verde
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 9,1 on Booking.com
Price range: €€ (mid range)
Modern stay in Bergamo with a garden, indoor pool and spacious rooms with a kitchenette. Very handy for families who want extra comfort just outside the center.
➜ Check availability
Palazzo Rivola
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 8,7 on Booking.com
Price range: €€ (mid range)
Charming B&B in Città Alta, just steps from Piazza Vecchia. You sleep in a historic building right in the most beautiful part of Bergamo.
➜ Check availability
Hotel Excelsior San Marco
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 8,9 on Booking.com
Price range: €€ (mid range)
Located close to the funicular with great views over the city. The spacious rooms make it a comfortable choice for families.
➜ Check availability
NH Bergamo
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 8,3 on Booking.com
Price range: €€€ (higher segment)
Modern option in Città Bassa with roomy family rooms and a large breakfast buffet that works well with kids.
➜ Check availability
Da Noi Due
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 8,3 on Booking.com
Price range: €€€ (higher segment)
Beautiful bed and breakfast in Bergamo with its own garden, pool and sun terrace, just a 5 minute drive from the city center.
➜ Check availability
Extra tip for families:
Choose a hotel within walking distance of the funicular. It saves a lot of hassle, and tired legs, at the end of the day.
Practical Tips for Bergamo, Transport, Car Rental and Parking
Bergamo is easy to reach, whether you fly in or drive to Northern Italy with your own car. We visited during a roadtrip to Lake Iseo, and Bergamo ended up being one of our favorite stops.
Driving to Bergamo
If you are driving to Italy, Bergamo makes a great first or last stop in Northern Italy. From southern Germany you reach this part of the country quite quickly, and the roads are in good condition. Do keep toll roads in mind along the way.
Bergamo is perfectly located for a roadtrip. Lake Iseo, Lake Garda and Lake Como are all within a short drive, as well as cities like Verona and Brescia.
Flying to Bergamo
Orio al Serio Airport, also known as Milan Bergamo Airport, is just a few kilometers from the city and is widely used by budget airlines. Many travelers land here and head straight to Milan, but Bergamo itself is actually a great city trip destination.
Cheap flights to Bergamo are easy to find via Trip.com.
From the airport, buses run frequently to the center of Bergamo. The ride takes about 15 minutes, depending on traffic. It is an easy and budget friendly option if you are not renting a car. Check the current line, schedule and tickets on arrival, as these can change.
Renting a Car in Bergamo for Your Roadtrip
Flying into Bergamo but planning to explore more than just the city? Then a rental car is really worth it. You can easily drive to Lake Iseo, Lake Garda or Lake Como, and cities like Verona and Brescia are also close by.
We usually rent through DiscoverCars or Booking.com and have had great experiences with both, especially when it comes to comparing prices and clear rental conditions.
Parking in Bergamo
We parked at Park Palasport. It is affordable, usually has available spaces and from here you can walk to both Città Alta and Città Bassa.
Good to know:
- Expect to pay around €1.20 per hour, though prices can change.
- If it is full, there are often more parking options in the same street.
Extra Parking Tips in Bergamo
Besides Park Palasport these are also convenient alternatives:
- Parcheggio Piazza Libertà
Underground parking garage in Città Bassa. Ideal if you want to explore the modern center first and then take the funicular up to Città Alta. - Parcheggio Città Alta Bergamo
Large parking area just below Città Alta. Perfect if your main goal is visiting the old town and you want to minimize walking with kids.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bergamo with Kids
Yes, Bergamo is actually great with children. The city is compact, so you can easily switch between walking, viewpoints, playground breaks and terrace stops. The funicular makes it extra exciting for younger travelers too.<br>Città Alta is especially fun to explore, it feels like one big open air playground with history around every corner.
For a first visit, 2 to 3 days is ideal. This gives you enough time to explore Città Alta and Città Bassa, visit a few museums and still enjoy plenty of relaxed breaks on squares or sunny terraces.<br>It is possible to see Bergamo in one day, but you will have to make choices. It will feel more like rushing from highlight to highlight instead of truly soaking up the atmosphere.
Partly. There are cobblestones, narrow streets and elevation changes, so it is doable but not always comfortable. A baby carrier or toddler carrier is often much easier, especially on the city walls and in smaller alleys.<br>We deliberately did not bring our stroller to Città Alta and did not regret it.
With kids, Città Alta usually wins. The atmosphere, open squares and car free areas make it easy to wander around without worrying about traffic.<br>Città Bassa is more modern and great for shopping, parks and extra dining options, but it feels less unique compared to the historic upper town.
Yes, absolutely. The ride is short, but for children it feels like a real attraction, and it saves you a steep uphill walk. It is also a very practical way to move between Città Bassa and Città Alta during your city trip.
Our Conclusion: Bergamo Is Surprisingly Great with Kids
As you have read, Bergamo is a really fun city to explore with children. Whether you are wandering through the atmospheric streets of Città Alta, riding the funicular or enjoying the original stracciatella gelato, there is plenty to keep the whole family happy.
It is the kind of place where you can easily spend a wonderful day, or several days, without getting bored. With our tips, you hopefully know exactly where to go for a relaxed and memorable trip.
Are you convinced to visit Bergamo with kids? Or do you have a golden tip that should absolutely be on this list? Let us know, we love hearing your experiences.
Handy Tips for Your Trip to Bergamo with Kids
More Italy Inspiration?
Also check out our article about Lake Iseo or our tips for visiting Gardaland!
Renting a Car
Compare prices via DiscoverCars or Booking.com to find the best option for your trip.
Tours and Activities Around Bergamo
Want to plan something fun in advance? On GetYourGuide you will find plenty of activities in and around Bergamo, from boat trips to museum tickets.
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